SupplyChain Magazine June 2017 | Page 74

ANWAR ANSARI
FUNCTION : being a valued resource and go-to person for all facets of the organization . FLEXIBILITY : able to work methodologically as well as independently / unconventionally , by coming up with innovative solutions . FREEDOM : to perform tasks and responsibilities with complete authority and empowerment . “ What I like best about this role is that it allows for interaction with professionals and subject-matter experts at different levels of the organization and across all functional areas . It provides an opportunity to learn new things about the company , business , market etc ., every day , which keeps one striving to search for even better solutions to cater to the business needs .
“ It isn ’ t just about performing hard-core procurement role and allied functions . What makes the role truly meaningful is steering the business by being strategically aligned and serving like a commercial expert who engages all the other business areas day in and day out .”
FORMULA FOR A SUCCESSFUL STRATEGIC SHIFT While recounting his experiences , Mr . Ansari highlighted the factors which according to him are the most crucial determinants for a successful strategic shift in Procurement and Supply Chain .
The first is , leadership ’ s vision , mindset and commitment : “ This factor in my opinion cannot be emphasized enough ,” he says . “ A progressive mindset and dynamic approach at the top are the key ingredients for keeping an organization agile and abreast with the transformative advancements and remaining ahead of the competition . Commitment of the top management is critical for paving the path towards a successful reform and has a far-reaching impact .”
The second is strategic partnership . Mr . Ansari continues : “ Focusing on revamping the procurement practices and systems is only one part of the transformative effort . What brings real results is creation of a true strategic partnership with the business . Especially when it comes to a function like procurement ,
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